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1,000 kWh
2,000 kWh

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Pricing Details

USAGE
AVG PRICE / KWH
500 kWh
1,000 kWh
2,000 kWh

Early cancellation fee

*Average Price per kWh assumes noted usage per month and specific LP&L Delivery Charges (i.e., Residential Service or Residential Distributed Renewable Generation Service). For additional information regarding plan pricing and other terms, please see the Electricity Facts Label, on the Plan Details page. Price shown is for new customers only.
How to increase an EV’s driving range
How to increase an EV’s driving range
How to increase an EV’s driving range

How to increase an EV’s driving range

Know the tricks to go farther

How to increase an EV’s driving range
How to increase an EV’s driving range

How to increase an EV’s driving range

Know the tricks to go farther

Driving range uncertainty is one of the biggest reasons why people are skeptical about switching to electric vehicles. 

But following a few simple tips and tricks to maximize EV range will make range anxiety a thing of the past.

How to calculate EV range

Since automakers produce EV models with varying battery capacities, EV range fluctuates from vehicle to vehicle. The range given by an automaker is ultimately an approximation that highly depends on the driving condition and person's driving style.

How is standard range calculated? 
Standard range is the general way an EV’s starting range is calculated (before hitting the road). It is generally determined using:

  1. Energy capacity
  2. Vehicle efficiency (amount of energy consumed per mile)

Formula: Range = energy capacity/vehicle efficieny

How is operational range calculated?

Operational range is the most current range once you’re on the road. It is generally determined using:

  1. Distance traveled
  2. Amount of power used
  3. Battery charge remaining

Formula: (Distance traveled/amount of power used) x (battery charge remaining) = Distance to empty

Factors that may affect your EV driving range:
  • Weather and temperature
  • Speed
  • Driving style
  • Road conditions

Extreme temperatures, fast acceleration, rough driving, and steep roads may decrease your EV range.

Tips to improve EV range

There’s a lot you can do to improve the overall performance, safety, aerodynamics, and range of either a gasoline or electric car. The same actions that stretch out the gas mileage of a regular combustion engine can also help extend the life of an EV battery. Follow these tips to improve your EV’s range:

Keep speed in mind

Driving at high speeds will deplete your battery faster. Be mindful of your speed to improve both safety and battery efficiency.

Drive gently

Slamming down on the accelerator and jerking the wheel will drain the battery faster. Keep your driving smooth and turn on the Eco setting of your car, if it has one, to prolong battery life.

Maximize regenerative braking

An EV uses the energy produced while braking to send power back to the battery. Turn on the regenerative setting of your vehicle and use this to your advantage when driving in the city.

Keep your tires properly inflated

Driving your EV with below-level tire pressure will deplete its battery life faster. Keep your tires with the right amount of air to extend battery life and reduce the risks on the road as well.

Drive light

The less you carry in your electric vehicle, the more efficient it will be. Get rid of unnecessary weight and clean out your trunk to increase EV range.

Choose the efficient route

Avoid areas with traffic congestion or routes that require the use of high speeds. Your GPS or navigation system can help you find these. Choose roads that are flat instead of hilly to allow for a steady commute.

Warm up and cool your EV beforehand

Waiting until you’re diving to warm up or cool your vehicle, prompting you to run the heater or AC at full force, will reduce its battery life a lot faster. Try heating and cooling your EV while it’s charging to optimize its range.

Charge properly

Some studies show that always charging your battery to 100% can decrease its lifespan. While there's debate over topping off your battery, charging your battery based on the manufacturer’s recommendation is best.

EV range is on the rise

Range anxiety – or the unsettling feeling that an EV doesn’t have enough range to get to a destination – stops many drivers from purchasing electric vehicles. Fortunately, more automakers are increasingly producing EVs with longer driving ranges.

Why choose an electric vehicle?

When compared to driving a gas- or diesel-powered vehicle, driving an electric vehicle is better for the environment. EVs also have fewer moving parts and thus may require less maintenance. Plus, EVs can help you save money, because you can avoid the high cost of gasoline, and take advantage of tax incentives and rebates. As the technology of electric vehicles continues to improve, it is becoming increasingly easier and more affordable to own an electric vehicle.

EV car plugged in charging
Products and plans

Reliant has the plans to fit your EV lifestyle. Charge your EV for less, every night, with the Reliant Electric Vehicle 12 plan or the Reliant Truly Free Nights plan.

Learn more about these plans

An ever-expanding network of public charging stations means that you can take your EV anywhere. Find a charging station near you.

Extending the life of your EV battery

The Department of Energy says EV batteries are built to last eight to ten years and sometimes longer. Good habits with your EV should make a difference.


EV FAQs

Show all answers

EV is an acronym for electric vehicle. EVs are vehicles that are either partially or fully powered on electric power. EVs use an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine.

There are three basic types of EVs: all-electric vehicles (AEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and hybrid-electric vehicles. All three are charged in part by regenerative braking, which captures kinetic energy during deceleration and stores it in the battery to power the electric motor.

Depending on where you live, tax credits, rebates, vouchers, discounts on vehicle registration fees, and other special offers or exemptions may be available to support the EV movement. With government EV incentives like the federal electric vehicle income tax credit, you may even qualify for cash back, depending on the make and model you buy.